Aston Villa’s American billionaire owner Randy Lerner likes the look of the former Chelsea boss but won’t be getting down on one knee to anyone.

The fact that Carlo Ancelotti is also a big favourite with fans on message boards is another big bonus.

Lerner has compiled a short- list already and Ancelotti only needs to declare his interest to be in with a major shout.

But Villa plan to get the inter- view process rolling next week and defi nitely want their new man in by the end of the month.

Lerner is desperate not to have the kind of chaotic start Villa endured last season when Martin O’Neill walked out on them fi ve days before the big kick-off.

And that’s why he is adamant they won’t be hanging around waiting for people to make their minds up after Gerard Houllier stood down as boss on health grounds on Wednesday.

Lerner believes he can match Ancelotti’s ambition and bumper pay packet but needs convincing the 51-year-old is as driven as him.

Ancelotti negotiated a £5m-a- year package at Chelsea and though Villa won’t pay that, they won’t be found lacking.

With one-time hot favourite Mark Hughes now cooling in the market, the way is open for Ancelotti to stake a massive claim. Sources close to the Italian suggest he is genuinely unsure whether it’s the right job for him.

If he opts out, then former Spurs’ boss Martin Jol would become favourite, just in front of Wigan’s Roberto Martinez.